Recalling Affection

Chapter 10

As the group made their way out of the terminal, Jungkook subtly took the lead, pulling his mask up higher to avoid drawing attention. Taehyung had already mentioned the restaurant Jungkook had booked, a high-end place tucked away in the quieter side of the city, ensuring privacy. However, as soon as the plan was mentioned, Saga visibly hesitated.

“I don’t think I can join,” Saga said softly, though her voice carried enough firmness to catch everyone’s attention. Vianna looked at her best friend with confusion. “Why not? It’s been ages since we’ve all been together! And today Tae and Jungkook are also there” she exclaimed, clearly hoping to convince Saga. She bit her lip, glancing awkwardly at Jimin, who was now watching her curiously. “It’s just… that kind of place is way too expensive for me. I don’t think I can…” Her voice trailed off, and she shifted uncomfortably.

The room fell silent for a moment as her words sunk in. Jimin, as always, was the first to jump in. “Come on, princess,” he said softly, nudging her shoulder. “Don’t worry about that. This isn’t about the bill; it’s about spending time together. And you know Tae and Vianna won’t let you chip in, right? See princess they came so far from stay here with us na...cant we do this much...please princess...” Vianna nodded enthusiastically. “Saga, please....please....This is such a special occasion, we are meeting after so long and honestly, Jungkook booked it for us. You don’t need to worry!”

Saga, however, still looked hesitant. She glanced down at her hands, avoiding everyone’s gaze. “I appreciate it, but I don’t feel comfortable…” Taehyung, who had been quietly observing, also spoke up, his tone playful yet sincere. “Saga, you’re my girlfriend’s best friend. That makes you family. And you are way like my sister which I always wanna. Do you really think I’d let you pay a single penny?” His bright smile seemed to lighten the mood slightly, but Saga’s expression didn’t change much."But if my presence if making you feel uncomfortable then..." Taehyung just looked at Vianna and Saga, but was cut off by Saga who become anxious,"No no...Taehyung never...its just..."

At that moment, Jungkook, who had been silent throughout the conversation, stepped closer. His quiet presence seemed to command attention, and when he spoke, his voice was low and gentle. “Saga…” He paused, making sure she was looking at him. She looked at him and then he spoke, “It’s not about the money or the place. It’s about celebrating moments with people who matter the most. And tonight, that includes you.”His words were simple, but the way he said them carried an unexpected warmth that caught everyone off guard—especially Saga. Her eyes locked with his, and for a fleeting moment, she saw something genuine and tender in his gaze. The firmness in her stance seemed to waver as her cheeks flushed lightly.

Vianna, standing beside her, didn’t miss the way Saga’s expression softened. Leaning closer to Taehyung, she whispered, “I think someone’s got a little influence over your buddy.” Taehyung smirked knowingly, whispering back, “It’s mutual. Just watch.”

Jimin, on the other hand, furrowed his brows. “Wait, hold on. Why is she agreeing to him?” he mumbled under his breath, crossing his arms. “I couldn’t convince her, Taehyung even Vianna cant but he says one thing, and suddenly, she’s melting? Why?” Saga, oblivious to Jimin’s confusion, finally sighed and nodded. “Alright,” she said softly, looking back at Jungkook. “I’ll come.” Jungkook’s eyes crinkled slightly, indicating the smile hidden behind his mask. “Good,” he said simply, stepping back to allow the group to continue moving. Vianna couldn’t resist teasing Saga as they walked. “You know, I’ve never seen you change your mind so quickly. So much into him..huh? Did he knew your side of feelings?” she whispered, a mischievous grin on her face. “Vianna!” Saga whispered back, her cheeks burning. “It’s nothing....means...I mean...he just… he made a good point, that’s all.” “Uh-huh,” Vianna replied, clearly unconvinced but dropping the subject for now.